Brooks is a well-known designer and manufacturer of athletic apparel that continues to evolve and grow as time goes on. One of their most popular brands of running shoe is the Ghost, with numerous iterations having been released over the years. While a new number attached to a product may have signified major changes in the past, consumers have grown apprehensive in recent years as to whether newer versions of a product are actually new. Fortunately, the Brooks Ghost 8 manages to breathe new life into this particular style of Brooks footwear, resulting in a new running shoe without any exaggeration.

Editor's Pros & Cons

Pros

Highly supportive in a natural-feeling way

Comfortable, moisture-wicking upper

Lightweight yet decently durable

Excellent flexibility on the outsole

Cons

Narrow fit can be uncomfortable for wider feet

Doesn’t perform well on rough trails

Not suitable for longer trails

Outsole

Outsole

One aspect of this shoe’s outsole that isn’t incredibly new is the use of BioMoGo DNA material, a recent addition to most of Brooks’ newer products. This same material was used in the Brooks Ghost 7 but has been completely redesigned for this 8th version. As a result, the Ghost 8’s outsole does a terrific job of adapting and shifting to a runner’s stride. Additionally, the use of a waffled rubber design for the underfoot helps to endow runners with confidence that they will maintain a secure footing, even in wet environments. Finally, this material helps to provide some additional cushioning, which will certainly be appreciated by runners transitioning from the Ghost 7.

Midsole

Midsole

The Ghost 8 showcases the most innovation over previous models through the brand new design of its midsole, serving as an evolution of models made prior. In addition to being fundamentally different, the Ghost 8 makes changes that make sense and provide tangible benefits to runners. Right off the bat, the Ghost 8’s midsole is firmer than the Ghost 7 because its density has been increased with the new design. This Brooks runner also sports a new crash pad stretched along the entirety of its lateral side, closer to the foot. These changes in midsole design are the main reason for the Brooks Ghost 8’s entirely novel and firm feel.

Upper

Upper

The upper portion of the Brooks Ghost 8 has garnered a great deal of praise from runners. Especially for runners in extremely warm climates such as Miami, the sweat-wicking mesh used predominantly in the upper’s construction is a welcome addition that keeps the feet of most runners dry, even during long runs. Another feature of the Ghost 8’s upper is Brooks' signature seamless overlay. This design aspect is highly praised among runners concerned with the overall comfort of their shoes, as it lessens the chance of skin irritation from rubbing. The upper also fits true to size and provides a snug yet comfortable fit in the heel.

Weight

Weight

At a little over 12 ounces, the Brooks Ghost 8 is bound to disappoint some runners with its intimidating weight. However, runners can feel comfortable in these shoes with the knowledge that Brooks made every ounce of weight count. It’s not like this weight is unrealistic for many running shoes; while it isn’t as lightweight as some other models, 12 ounces is still a reasonable weight. Additionally, a less competent footwear manufacturer definitely wouldn’t be able to offer the same level of quality on display here at the same weight. Fortunately, Brooks managed to incorporate a bevy of impressive design aspects that make the Ghost 8 a terrific daily trainer despite some extra heft.

Breathability

Breathability

Despite having a heavier weight than some runners may be comfortable with, one aspect of the Ghost 8 that is sure to provide comfort for everyone is its excellent breathability. When put to the ultimate test of running in Miami during the summertime, these shoes managed to maintain a cool and dry run. This is accomplished through Brooks’ use of sweat-wicking uppers and breathable materials placed throughout the Ghost 8’s upper portion. Even during the longest of running sessions, the typical experience of uncomfortable heat and swampy trench foot will be noticeably absent.

Comfort

Comfort

In comparison to the Ghost 7, the cavity of this updated Brooks model is lower to the ground, with thicker foam added between a runner’s foot and the road beneath. This wasn’t accomplished with thicker material per se; rather, a better material was used that incorporated the right amount of density and springiness. As a result of this, increased comfort and support will be felt by runners transitioning into these shoes from previous versions. Additional comfort features include a firmer midsole and a narrower transition groove, resulting in an almost hug-like feeling on the heel and toe box. This particular design allows Brooks to strike a perfect balance between cushioning and stability.

Style

Style

While most runners don't personally feel as though their running shoes need to be an extension of their artistic side, the majority of running enthusiasts appreciate a good looking running shoe. In order to cater to customers with an eye for aesthetics, the Brooks Ghost 8 has a professional look to them while still appearing subtle enough to blend in well with the rest of a runner’s outfit. Numerous and varied color options are available, which is very helpful for those looking to coordinate with the rest of their gear. One style worth mentioning for its excellent style is the model that primarily incorporates blue with orange laces and accents.

Durability

Durability

According to customers of the Ghost 8, the engineered mesh found on this Brooks product is very forgiving to a great deal of stress that is commonly experienced when running on low to mid-intensity surfaces. A significant portion of runners, especially those who are fans of trail running, won’t let common road hazards such as mud, dirt, puddles, or debris slow them down or divert their path during a run. Brooks understands this and fashioned the Ghost 8 with materials that can withstand these conditions. Rest assured, they are made to last and can function as effective daily trainers for hundreds of miles.

Protection

Protection

Whether it’s damage from the outside world or irritation to the skin and joints, runners often are unaware of what issues their shoes may until putting in some serious hours. With regards to these specific shoes, the cushioning and impact absorbing properties provide excellent comfort while worn. The Brooks Ghost 8 also features a seamless upper that provides terrific breathability, which helps runners to avoid skin rubbing or irritation. Finally, the use of a snug-fitting heel provides an even greater amount of protection for runners from slipping while running, saving them the pain from a plethora of potential injuries.

Responsiveness

Responsiveness

By nature of its design, the Brooks Ghost 8 is very quick and responsive. This can be partially attributed to the sole unit on the shoe which helps to move the foot through harder steps with ease. This running shoe is also very forgiving on heel strikers thanks to the implementation of the right amount of cushioning; in addition to softening the blow of each stride, it also provides extra firmness under the forefoot. Higher responsiveness ensues as a result because it facilitates quick and affirmative push-off and transition for runners.

Support

Support

In order for Brooks to live up to their motto of "Run Happy," they designed their Ghost 8 running shoe with important features that enhance its support. This led to a shoe that enables runners to happily run for long distances through the aid of implemented footwear technology of the shoe on longer runs. Traction is also a major component of this shoe’s support; while tested, these shoes managed to provide excellent grip and control over multiple running surfaces. Finally, the upper portion that provides a snug fit to enhance support even more by reducing irritation and loss of control from slippage.

Terrain

Terrain

This is first and foremost a road running shoe, so they won’t perform very competently on longer trails. This isn’t to say that they are overly sensitive since they can put in some serious work on inclined surfaces. Not a single runner stated that they felt any slippage whatsoever thanks to the secure-fitting upper. Diminished impact on the leg and toe box also make the Ghost 8 an excellent downhill runner. Finally, the waffle design on the outsole makes quick work of transitions, serving as a welcome change from the Ghost 7.

Price

Price

Brooks is a company that is well known for providing quality running shoes at a very competitive price point. This is often the single feature of Brooks shoes most important among prospective buyers, especially while comparing the Ghost 8 with other shoes in its same price range. After all, this is a feature-packed shoes that provide a direct impact on longer runs to a considerable degree. Because of this, runners who are on a tight budget will certainly appreciate all of the features contained in a shoe with this low of an asking price.

Traction

Traction

In order to provide enough traction to meet the multifaceted needs of runners, several design aspects centered around achieving the maximum possible control. On the underfoot, a newly designed outsole made from BioMoGo DNA material placed in a waffle-style pattern forms a solid grip on the ground beneath a runner’s feet. From there, the dense midsole provides targeted accents that emphasize key areas of a runner’s foot to ensure their initial grip remains solid. Finally, a weather-resistant design for the entirety of the shoe ensures that this grip can even be maintained in wetter environments.

Flexibility

Flexibility

In the pursuit of providing the highest possible stability, the overall flexibility of the Brooks Ghost 8 suffered slightly. It’s true that some flexibility is present due to the fact that they weigh so little; however, any pliability felt while wearing these shoes is unintentional on the part of the manufacturer. Fortunately, this doesn’t result in any considerable amount of discomfort. That said, runners used to a more bendable running shoe, such as those used for minimalist barefoot-style running, will likely miss some aspects of those shoes.

Stability

Stability

While the Brooks Ghost 8 may not offer any noteworthy flexibility features, several aspects of its construction support its stability to an astounding degree. For instance, a crash pad placed along the lateral side of its midsole helps to prevent overpronation which may otherwise lead to a loss of stability. An especially tight-fitting heel on the upper portion provides further support in this regard, helping heel strikers in particular to avoid any loss of control. Finally, an outsole with fantastic BioMoGo DNA tech ensures that traction is on point, preventing any loss of control that may come about without it.

Drop

Drop

This running shoe has a difference in elevation from the heel to the toe of around 12 mm. This is a greater degree of elevation than is offered by most other styles of footwear. In fact, this heel drop is so vast that it even stands out from the majority of standard running shoes! What this means to the layman is that most of the cushioning from the midsole is focused around the rear of the shoe. Runners who tend to strike the ground with their heels should notice this extra padding, while those more prone to midfoot or forefoot striking will possibly experience discomfort.

Key Features

Key Features

Omega Flex Grooves ensure flexibility and quick transitions

Engineered mesh upper provides a seamless fit with high breathability

BIOMOGO DNA Midsole combines cushioning and support

Full-length crash pad results in optimal protection and comfort

Bottom Line

Bottom Line

Thanks to the many well-thought-out changes made on the path from the Ghost 7 to the Ghost 8, there is no reason for a customer to feel apprehension toward the prospect of upgrading. The changes aren’t merely cosmetic; the Brooks Ghost 8 is a complete overhaul built on an entirely new platform. Brooks has once again set the bar for everyday trainers that pack incredible features into a reasonable price point. Because of this, the Brooks Ghost 8 make for excellent daily running shoes.